In this episode, Jivan delves into the intricacies of resignations, emphasising the importance of HOW to leave a job, especially in high-stakes industries like life sciences and healthcare. Drawing on recent high-profile resignations, such as those of Rosie Duffield and Louise Haig, Jivan contrasts the impact of emotional versus professional exits. She discusses the potential long-term consequences of burning bridges and offers practical steps for a respectful resignation process, including planning an exit, securing a new role, and drafting a professional resignation letter.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
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How you resign can significantly impact your career, especially in specialised industries where reputations are crucial. Maintaining professionalism during resignation helps preserve future opportunities and relationships.
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Before resigning, reflect on your reasons for leaving and secure your next role if possible. This preparation minimizes disruption and helps maintain your professional reputation.
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Craft a concise resignation letter that focuses on your role, notice period, and gratitude for your experiences. Avoid airing grievances in the letter; save those discussions for an exit interview.
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Employers should use exit interviews to gather insights about employee departures. This feedback can help improve workplace culture and retention strategies, addressing issues like poor leadership and lack of growth opportunities.
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If an employee resigns abruptly or publicly criticizes the organization, it's essential for leadership to respond thoughtfully. This may involve holding all-hands meetings, issuing professional statements, and analyzing the reasons behind the resignation to implement necessary changes.
BEST MOMENTS
"How you resign matters more than you think. It can shape your career for years to come."
"I think perhaps maybe put it in a drawer overnight and then look at it again in the morning."
"You never know when you might need somebody again in the future."
"I think exit interviews are probably a little bit more productive than the resignation letter."
"A resignation, moving on, that's what fixes it, not the I feel great now because I vented at somebody."
HOST BIO
Jivan Dempsey has first hand experience of workplace toxicity and bad boss behaviour. Triggered by the #MeToo movement she was compelled to talk about her experiences in her early career, assaulted by a boss at work and his subsequent aggressive and bullying behaviours which impacted her work performance, mental health and eventually cost her a job she'd loved.
Listeners are drawn to her raw honesty and insightful reflections on change and resilience. Her book, "The HR Change Manager's Handbook" and collaboration on "Can't Break Me," attest to her change and transformation expertise and dedication to empowering others - from someone who's been in the trenches and emerged stronger.
As a seasoned HR professional, consultant, psychologist and speaker, she offers bespoke consultancy and programmes to help companies navigate HR transformation that delivers a better employee experience and cultural shifts to create healthier, happier, and more inclusive workplaces for all.
Please connect with her on Linked In:
Jivan Dempsey FCIPD GMBPsS | LinkedIn
Or send her an email at:
jivan@fiverivers-consulting.com
HR Change Manager’s Handbook: The 3 Step Guide To Managing HR Transformation: https://amzn.eu/d/drvToPv
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